Have you ever felt like your skin needs a reset button?
If you’re looking for an impactful yet safe way to rejuvenate your skin, medium-depth chemical peels could be your skincare’s ultimate upgrade. These peels offer impressive results with minimal downtime, giving your skin the refresh it deserves.
A professional chemical peel can transform your skin’s texture and tone, whether you want to smooth out fine lines, fade acne scars, or tackle sun damage and hyperpigmentation.
At Clearstone Laser Hair Removal & Med Spa, we specialize in amazing medium-depth chemical peels. They go a bit deeper than your average superficial peel, giving you longer-lasting results while still being safe and effective.
Let’s walk you through exactly what to expect before and after your chemical peel, including real stories of transformation, what the healing timeline looks like (spoiler: it’s not as dramatic as a reality TV makeover!), and the essential aftercare tips to ensure you achieve that radiant, ’filter-free’ glow you’ve been wanting.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a professional skincare treatment that uses a chemical solution to exfoliate the top layers of your skin, revealing new, healthier skin underneath.
Essential Benefits of a Chemical Peel
- Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
- Fades acne scars and hyperpigmentation
- Improves skin texture and tone
- Stimulates collagen production for firmer skin
- Brightens dull, uneven skin
Unlike laser treatments, chemical peels do not use heat, making them a great alternative for non-invasive skin rejuvenation.
The Mechanism of Medium-Depth Chemical Peels
We offer medium-depth chemical peels, which are more effective than superficial peels and target deeper layers of skin for long-lasting transformation.
What Makes a Medium-Depth Peel Unique?
- Uses Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) and other active ingredients
- Penetrates beyond the surface layer for deeper exfoliation
- Effectively treats acne scars, sun damage, pigmentation, and wrinkles
- Minimal downtime compared to deep peels
Who Should Consider a Medium-Depth Peel?
A medium-depth chemical peel is ideal for individuals who have:
- Visible sun damage (dark spots, melasma, or uneven skin tone)
- Fine lines and wrinkles that need softening
- Acne scars or blemishes that won’t fade with regular skincare
- Dull or rough skin texture
Note: This peel is safe for most skin types, but those with sensitive or active skin conditions should consult a specialist first.
How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel
To ensure the best results, follow these pre-treatment guidelines:
- Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 48 hours before your peel.
- Stop using retinoids, exfoliants, or acids (AHA/BHA) one week before treatment.
- Stay hydrated and moisturized to prepare your skin for exfoliation.
- Arrive with a clean face—no makeup, lotions, or sunscreen on treatment day.
Proper preparation minimizes irritation and helps the peel work more effectively.
What to Expect Immediately After a Chemical Peel
After a medium-depth chemical peel, your skin undergoes a series of healing phases. Understanding these phases helps manage expectations and ensures proper aftercare for optimal results.
Day 1-3: Immediate Reactions
Your skin will react to the treatment as it begins the exfoliation process, which will result in the following:
Redness & Tightness
- Your skin may appear reddish or flushed, similar to a moderate sunburn.
- It will feel tight and dry, indicating the beginning of cell turnover.
Mild Swelling & Sensitivity
- Some areas may experience slight puffiness, especially around the eyes.
- Skin may feel tender to the touch and warm due to increased blood flow.
Tingling & Stinging Sensation
- Some mild discomfort or burning sensation may be present, lasting a few hours to a day.
- This sensation is temporary and a sign that the peel is actively working.
Tip: Use cool compresses or a soothing ointment as your provider recommends to reduce discomfort.
Day 4-7: Peeling & Shedding Phase
This is the most noticeable phase of chemical peel healing time as the outer layer sheds to reveal the fresh skin beneath. During this phase, you’ll observe:
Visible Flaking & Peeling
- Your skin starts shedding in small, flaky patches around the mouth, nose, and chin.
- Some areas may shed faster than others, creating an uneven peeling process.
Darker Skin Before Peeling
- The top layer may temporarily darken before flaking off.
- This is normal and part of the exfoliation process.
Mild Itching or Dryness
- As dead skin sheds, you may feel mild itching or dryness.
- Keep your skin hydrated with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer.
Moreover, when you get your chemical peel at Clearstone Laser Hair Removal & Med Spa, you’ll receive a VI Peel® aftercare kit to support your recovery. It includes step-by-step instructions, post-peel towelettes, a gentle cleanser, repair cream, and broad-spectrum sunscreen—everything your skin needs for a smooth, effective healing process.
Note: During the peeling phase, it’s crucial to resist the urge to pick, scratch, or rub the skin, as this can lead to scarring or hyperpigmentation. Furthermore, your skin will be highly sensitive, making it essential to avoid excessive sun exposure, even indoors, so apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily as a key protective measure.
Day 7-14: Fresh, New Skin Appears
Your skin completes the peeling process, revealing a brighter, smoother complexion, along with:
Glowing, Healthier Skin
- Your skin tone appears more, even with reduced pigmentation.
- Acne scars and fine lines may start to fade, improving overall texture.
Residual Redness & Sensitivity
- Some mild pinkness or redness may persist, especially for lighter skin tones.
- The skin may still feel slightly sensitive, but the discomfort should subside.
Makeup is Safe After 7 Days
- Light, mineral-based makeup can be applied after one week if needed.
- Opt for non-comedogenic products to avoid clogged pores.
Tip: Continue using gentle, hydrating skincare and avoid exfoliants or harsh ingredients for at least two weeks.
Beyond Two Weeks: Ongoing Improvements
By this point, your skin is fully recovering, and collagen production will continue over the next 4-6 weeks.
✅ Skin will feel firmer and smoother due to increased collagen renewal.
✅ Pigmentation and acne scars will gradually lighten over the next few months.
✅ Results will continue to improve with proper skincare maintenance.
Long-Term Maintenance
- Follow-up treatments every 6-12 months help maintain long-lasting benefits.
- Stick to a consistent skincare routine with hydration, sun protection, and antioxidants.
Before & After: Real Results from a Chemical Peel
Melasma
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Before: Dark, uneven patches on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip, skin tone appears uneven due to hyperpigmentation.
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After: More even skin tone with significantly reduced pigmentation. Lighter patches and brighter, smoother skin. The complexion appears more uniform, and the darker spots fade.
Acne Scars & Hyperpigmentation
- Before: Noticeable active acne, redness, and scars across the face, leading to uneven skin texture and tone.
- After: Clearer skin with reduced breakouts, less redness, and smoother texture, the scarring has significantly faded, resulting in a more even and radiant complexion.
Uneven Texture & Large Pores
- Before: Photodamage, sun spots, red marks with visible pores.
- After: Softer, refined texture, radiant glow.
Chemical Peel Potential Risks
Medium-depth peels are safe when performed by professionals, but some temporary side effects include:
- Redness or sensitivity lasting a few days
- Peeling & flaking (a normal part of the process)
- Mild swelling in sensitive areas
Additionally, rare complications like hyperpigmentation can be avoided by following aftercare instructions carefully.
Enhancing Your Chemical Peel Results with Other Skin Treatments
A chemical peel is an excellent standalone treatment for skin rejuvenation, but when combined with other advanced skincare procedures, you can maximize results and achieve faster, longer-lasting improvements.
We at Clearstone Laser Hair Removal & Med Spa offer a range of complementary treatments that work synergistically with chemical peels to target specific skin concerns, including pigmentation, acne scars, fine lines, and uneven texture.
How to Combine a Chemical Peel with Other Skin Treatments
- IPL Photofacial + Chemical Peel: Brightening & Pigmentation Correction
Best For: Sun damage, hyperpigmentation, redness, and uneven skin tone.
Why Combine? A chemical peel exfoliates the surface layers of your skin, making IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy more effective in breaking down pigment and reducing sunspots.
IPL helps fade brown spots and redness while stimulating collagen production.
Recommended Plan
- Start with a medium-depth chemical peel.
- After 2-3 weeks of healing, undergo an IPL Photofacial for further pigmentation reduction.
- Maintain results with yearly follow-up sessions.
2. VI Peel® + Microneedling: Ultimate Acne Scar & Wrinkle Reduction
Best For: Acne scars, fine lines, large pores, and uneven skin texture.
Why Combine? The VI Peel® accelerates cell turnover, improving skin tone and addressing mild scars, while microneedling stimulates collagen production by creating tiny micro-injuries that heal, resulting in firmer, smoother skin. Together, these treatments work synergistically to reduce deep scars and wrinkles more effectively and quickly than a single treatment alone.
Recommended Plan
- Start with a VI Peel® to prep the skin.
- After 3-4 weeks of recovery, begin microneedling sessions (spaced 4-6 weeks apart).
- Maintain results with yearly VI Peel®s & microneedling touch-ups.
3. Microdermabrasion + Chemical Peel: Deep Exfoliation & Skin Renewal
Best For: Dull skin, clogged pores, mild pigmentation, and rough texture.
Why Combine? Microdermabrasion removes dead skin cells, enhancing the penetration of the chemical peel for deeper exfoliation. This duo is highly effective for acne-prone skin, preventing future breakouts while improving skin brightness.
Recommended Plan
- Undergo microdermabrasion first to prep the skin.
- Follow up with a medium-depth chemical peel within 1-2 weeks.
- Repeat the cycle every 8-12 weeks for optimal maintenance.
4. Dermaplaning + Chemical Peel: Instant Glow & Smooth Skin
Best For: Peach fuzz removal, dull skin, fine lines, and mild hyperpigmentation.
Why Combine? Dermaplaning gently removes vellus hair (peach fuzz) and dead skin, allowing the chemical peel to penetrate deeper for enhanced exfoliation. The result is ultra-smooth, glowing skin with a more even application of skincare products and makeup.
Recommended Plan
- Start with dermaplaning to prepare the skin.
- Immediately follow with a VI Peel® or medium-depth chemical peel.
- Maintain results with monthly dermaplaning and quarterly peels.
We hope this guide has given you the essential information to kickstart your journey to smoother, healthier skin with a chemical peel. If you’re in Houston and ready to treat yourself to premium skincare—a VI Peel®, microplaning, skin sculpting, or any of our other top-tier treatments—we’re here to help you achieve your best skin yet.
World Class VI Peel® Awaits You at Clearstone Laser Hair Removal & Med Spa
At Clearstone Laser Hair Removal & Med Spa, our VI Peel® is one of several services to enhance natural beauty. We use a custom blend of acids, vitamins, and skin lighteners to gently exfoliate and promote cell turnover, resulting in smoother, brighter, and more youthful skin with minimal downtime.
Our approach centers on personalized care. Whether you opt for a single treatment or a combination package, our experienced team collaborates to develop a plan tailored to your unique skin concerns. With our state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on safety and effectiveness, achieving glowing, rejuvenated skin has never been easier.
Ready to revitalize your skin? Book a FREE consultation today!
